HEALTH officials are urging thousands of Irish people who were recently ill with a stomach bug to stay home as cases are spiking across the country.
The HSE has recently reported a surge in Norovirus cases and it is expected to continue for several weeks as it is currently spreading “at high levels”.
The common illness is known as the winter vomiting bug and is usually high during the winter months, between December and April.
It spreads quickly through close contact, contaminated surfaces and food, making it highly difficult to contain once an outbreak occurs.
Issuing the warning, the HSE said: “Norovirus, a very common cause of gastroenteritis, is currently circulating at high levels in the community and these levels are likely to continue for the next number of weeks.
“Norovirus (the winter vomiting bug), which causes vomiting and diarrhoea, is highly infectious and easily spread by close contact between people.”
The health officials reveals that Ireland is currently dealing with high levels of COVID-19, RSV, influenza, and the norovirus, putting much extra pressure on healthcare services.
They added: “Norovirus normally surges in winter, often boosted by increased socialising.
“At this time of year, when we still have a lot of influenza, RSV and COVID-19, high levels of norovirus, combined with pressures from circulating respiratory infections, can place severe demands on healthcare services.”
They are stressing to Irish people that despite the virus being unpleasant, most cases recover quickly without medical treatment.
However, in a plea to hinder the spread of the virus, the HSE is urging the public to take the following precautions.
They urge people with a stomach bug to stay off work or school for at least 48 hours after their symptoms have passed.
If they have vomiting or diarrhoea, they are encouraged to avoid visiting the Emergency Departments and to contact their pharmacist or GP by phone instead.
However, if the ill patient is feeling unwell, they should not delay in going to the emergency department as it could be life-threatening.
They are also asked to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water; alcohol hand gels do not kill noroviruses.
Norovirus symptoms
You are most likely to have norovirus if you:
- Feel sick
- Get sick
- Have diarrhoea
In some cases, some people may have:
- A slight fever
- Headaches
- Painful stomach cramps
- Aching limbs.
The symptoms usually start one to two days after you become infected and last up to three days.
The HSE said: “Norovirus, in most people, is an unpleasant but mild illness that passes off quickly without any treatment.
“It can usually be managed at home – drinking plenty of fluids is usually all that is needed.
“It’s not always possible to avoid getting norovirus, but following the above advice can help stop the virus spreading.”
Antibiotics will not help feel you better as it is caused by a virus.
STAYING SAFE AT HOME
The HSE also advises people to follow the guidelines that can help stop the spread of the virus in their homes and reduce the impact of the virus.
Disinfect any surfaces or objects that could be contaminated. It’s best to use a bleach-based household cleaner.
Wash any items of clothing or bedding that could have become contaminated separately on a hot wash to ensure the virus is killed.
Don’t share towels and flannels.
Flush away any infected poo or vomit in the toilet and clean the surrounding area.
Avoid eating raw, unwashed produce.
